How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Really Take in West Michigan? A Clear, Homeowner-Friendly Timeline

The Planning & Design Phase (2–6 Weeks)

Before a single cabinet is removed, this is where your remodel truly begins.

1. Get an Accurate, Itemized Quote

The first major step is securing a precise estimate, not just a “budget.”

This means: 

• Reviewing the entire scope of the project
• Confirming materials
• Making initial selections
• Ensuring nothing is missed

This portion often takes the longest within the planning phase because selections directly affect the final quote.

2. Make Your Selections

Material selection speed varies greatly by homeowner:

• Some clients already have everything chosen
• Others explore options and take a few weeks

There’s no right or wrong, just a timeline that adjusts to your comfort level.

3. Prepare Your Kitchen

Before construction starts, homeowners will:

• Empty all cabinets
• Remove anything fragile or sentimental
• Get ready for some dust (even with our plastic barrier systems, a small amount is unavoidable)

4. Seasonal Considerations

In West Michigan:

• Winter can slow certain aspects
• Rainy seasons can delay drywall drying times

While these factors don’t derail most schedules, they can influence pacing during specific steps.

Pre-Construction & Permitting (1–3 Weeks)

Once designs are approved, preparations shift into logistics and scheduling.

1. Finalize the Scope & Schedule

Before demolition, the team will:

• Confirm selections
• Finalize the project scope
• Distribute schedules to all subcontractors

This keeps every trade aligned from the start.

2. Obtain Permits

Kitchen remodel permits in our local municipalities typically take around 2 weeks.

3. Lead Times: Cabinets, Appliances & Counters

Unlike many regions, these lead times rarely delay the start of a Home Specialists project.

Your start date is primarily dependent on:

• Crew availability
• Pre-construction readiness

Construction Phase: What Homeowners Can Expect (6–12 Weeks)

Once construction begins, the project follows a structured, week-by-week flow.

General Sequence

1. Demolition
2. Framing (if walls or layouts change)
3. Mechanical trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC)
4. Insulation (if needed)
5. Drywall installation & finishing
6. Flooring
7. Cabinet installation
8. Countertop templating & install
9. Backsplash
10. Trim, paint & finish work
11. Fixtures, hardware & final details

Schedules are updated weekly to keep homeowners in the loop.

Standard Timeline Ranges

• Typical kitchen: 6–8 weeks
• Complex kitchen: 10–12 weeks

What Can Extend the Construction Timeline?

Two main causes:

1. Unforeseen issues uncovered during demolition
2. Lead times for materials needed to correct those issues

Otherwise, subcontractor schedules tend to stay on track and predictable.

West Michigan Variables That Affect Timelines

1. Labor Availability

Right now, our region’s subcontractors and partners are keeping up well, allowing kitchen remodel projects to move smoothly.

2. Regional Delays

Common delays like inspections or supply chain issues rarely impact kitchen remodeling projects significantly.

3. Older Homes with Hidden Challenges

Homes in areas like East Grand Rapids, Heritage Hill, and many mid-century neighborhoods may have:

• Harder demolition conditions
• Older electrical or plumbing systems
• Structural quirks behind the walls

These conditions can extend timelines depending on what’s uncovered.

Homeowner-Controlled Factors

1. Selection Speed

Choosing materials quickly (or slowly) is one of the largest variables in total project duration.

2. Change Orders

Any mid-project changes require:

• A new schedule
• Trade rescheduling
• Potential material wait times

Depending on the extent, a change order can add up to two weeks.

Final Steps & Close-Out (1 Week)

Even after construction wraps, there are final steps before your remodeled kitchen is officially complete.

1. Cleaning & Resetting the Space

Our crew performs:

• Deep cleaning
• Touch-ups
• Final prep

Then homeowners can begin filling cabinets and drawers again.

2. Punch List & Final Detailing

This last quality assurance phase generally takes about one week.

Total Timeline: What Most Homeowners Can Expect (3–6 Months)

From the first estimate to the final walkthrough, a West Michigan kitchen remodel typically spans 3 to 6 months.

Faster Projects (minimal structural work)

• LVP flooring
• No drywall removal
• No plumbing or electrical relocation

➡ ️ These move quickly and efficiently.

Longer Projects (full gut & rebuild)

• Stripping walls down to studs
• New electrical & plumbing
• New layout or walls
• Ceiling modifications

➡ ️ These require more time, coordination, and inspections.

Final Word: A Remodel You Can Plan Around

Every kitchen is unique, but the process becomes much more predictable when you understand the steps involved. With a clear plan, consistent communication, and thoughtful selections, your remodel can move smoothly from start to finish, resulting in a kitchen crafted to support the life you live every day.

By Trent De Visser, VP of Operations of Home Specialists